Motor vehicle collisions that result in serious injuries or death are tragic and often devastating for the families of those involved. Driving at excessive speeds and drug use are among the most common leading factors in fatal car accidents in Hawaii and throughout the nation. Grieving families are left to pick up the pieces, which often include tremendous financial expenses that they may not be prepared to pay.
One such tragedy occurred at approximately 4 a.m. on a recent Saturday. An 18-year-old male was reportedly behind the wheel of a car that veered across the center line of traffic. The vehicle then careened off the road and smashed into a nearby fence and utility pole.
Three other young men, also 18, were riding as passengers at the time of the crash. One of them had to undergo emergency surgery due to his injuries. Another was taken to a medical center in Oahu. Sadly, the third teen was pronounced dead a few hours after the accident.
A negligent homicide investigation remains ongoing at this time. Police have stated that they believe drugs and speed to be leading factors in the cause of the crash. There have reportedly been three fatal car accidents so far this year on the same island in Hawaii. When a victim of another person’s negligence is killed in an accident, an immediate family member may seek justice in court by filing a wrongful death claim. A successful claim can result in a monetary judgment against the responsible party that can provide compensation to help offset some of the costs a family has incurred because of the accident.
Source: khon2.com, “One dead, three injured from crash in Keaau“, FEb. 14, 2016